3. High-Vaulted Ceiling Ribs & Iron Wheel Chandelier
Introduction
Ribbed vaulting is one of Gothic cathedral architecture’s greatest structural achievements. Recreating vaulted ceiling ribs paired with a central iron wheel chandelier creates an overhead focal point that commands attention.
What This Idea Means
This idea draws the eye upward, converting flat ceilings into cathedral-style vaulted spaces. Lightweight faux-wood or painted plaster ribs extend diagonally across the ceiling plane, intersecting at carved central medallions (bosses) that support multi-tiered iron chandeliers.
How to Make It
- Design the Grid: Diagram a diagonal rib lattice across your ceiling, dividing the space into square or rectangular vaults.
- Install Center Bosses: Mount carved decorative ceiling medallions (bosses) at the intersection points of your grid.
- Mount Curved Beams: Install lightweight polyurethane faux-wood beams or flexible moulding strips along your diagonal lines, curving them slightly downward toward wall posts.
- Finish Surface: Stain or paint the ceiling ribs in dark Jacobean oak or matte black, contrasting them against a lighter greige or textured stone-plaster ceiling background.
- Install Lighting: Hardwire a multi-arm wrought iron wheel chandelier directly through the center of the main ceiling boss, using warm flame-tip LED bulbs.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Use lightweight polyurethane faux-wood ribs rather than solid timber to avoid adding excessive weight to ceiling drywall framing.
- Variation: Apply textured Venetian lime-wash plaster to the ceiling fields between the ribs for an authentic medieval stone vault appearance.
What You Need to Make It
- Polyurethane Faux-Beam Strips or Flexible Moulding
- Carved Polyurethane Ceiling Medallions (Bosses)
- Construction Adhesive & Lag Screws
- Multi-Arm Wrought Iron Wheel Chandelier
- Warm-White Flame-Tip LED Candle Bulbs (2200K)